Head of Estimating

1st Step Solutions Ltd; Greater London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm is looking for a Head of Estimating based in Grays, Essex. This senior role requires strong leadership skills to manage an estimating team and oversee the full tendering process for mechanical and electrical projects. The ideal candidate will bring substantial experience in building services, excellent commercial awareness, and the ability to work under tight deadlines. The position offers competitive salary, performance bonus, and opportunities for career progression.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Performance-related bonus

Company car / allowance

Pension scheme

Career progression opportunities

Private health care

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior estimating role within MEP / building services.
• Strong technical knowledge of mechanical & electrical systems.
• Track record of winning projects in commercial, residential, or industrial sectors.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the estimating team.
• Set estimating strategy aligned with company growth objectives.
• Review specifications, drawings, and contract documents.
• Oversee all MEP tenders from enquiry through to submission.
• Build strong relationships with clients and suppliers.

Skills

Proven experience in a senior estimating role

Strong technical knowledge of mechanical & electrical systems

Excellent commercial awareness

Strong leadership and people management skills

Ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines

Advanced Excel and estimating software experience

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Education

HNC / HND or degree in Building Services, Engineering, or Quantity Surveying

Professional membership (CIBSE, RICS, etc.)

Tools

Estimating software

Job description

1st Step Solutions are supporting a building services engineering company who have an opportunity for a

Head of Estimating

based in Grays, Essex.

Role Overview

Our client is seeking an experienced Head of Estimating to lead and develop their estimating function. This senior role will be responsible for managing the full tendering process, building a high-performing estimating team, and driving profitable growth across mechanical and electrical projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the estimating team
• Set estimating strategy aligned with company growth objectives
• Implement best practice processes and systems
• Work closely with senior management on pipeline planning
• Oversee all MEP tenders from enquiry through to submission
• Review specifications, drawings, and contract documents
• Ensure accurate take-offs and pricing of labour, plant, and materials
• Develop competitive yet commercially sound bid strategies
• Manage risk and opportunity assessments on all bids
• Attend pre-tender meetings and client interviews
• Build strong relationships with clients, consultants, and supply chain
• Negotiate with suppliers and subcontractors to secure best value
• Support commercial team during contract award and handover
• Assist in value engineering and cost-saving initiatives
• Maintain and improve estimating software and databases
• Track tender success rates and provide performance reports
• Maintain cost data and benchmarking systems

Skills & Experience Required

• Proven experience in a senior estimating role within MEP / building services
• Strong technical knowledge of mechanical & electrical systems
• Track record of winning projects in commercial, residential, or industrial sectors
• Excellent commercial awareness
• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Ability to manage multiple bids under tight deadlines
• Advanced Excel and estimating software experience
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Desirable

• HNC / HND or degree in Building Services, Engineering, or Quantity Surveying
• Professional membership (CIBSE, RICS, etc.)
• Experience implementing estimating systems and procedures
• Knowledge of NEC & JCT contracts

Package

• Competitive salary
• Performance-related bonus
• Company car / allowance
• Pension scheme
• Career progression opportunities
• Private health care